If you are reading this, then the best news is that you have a brand new puppy to bring home! These are moments that are full of joy and excitement, but there can also be a degree of chaos too!
Something really important to do right at the start of your pet parenthood is to pick out the perfect first collar. It might not seem like a big deal, but it can really make a difference for health, behavior and everything in between. A good collar can do more than just look cute, it can also set the tone you want for safety, comfort and good training as your furry friend grows.
Here are The Lille Björn, we are dedicated to designing and creating pet accessories that match your approach and enthusiasm for being a responsible owner. We want to match you with a leather collar for puppies that goes beyond simple aesthetics. For proper fit, lasting value and maximum comfort, we’ve got you covered.
If you are looking for the best puppy collar out there, you have definitely come to the right place. Here is all of the information you need about an accessory that grows with them and keeps them happy and healthy.
Why Puppies Need Special Consideration When Choosing a Collar
The truth is that not all dog collars and harnesses are created equal, and that is even more the case when it comes to pieces designed specifically for puppies. Their little bodies are always changing, and their skin is much more delicate than an adult dogs’. If you choose the wrong collar, it can lead to problems like restricted movement, discomfort and even minor injuries in the worst cases.
Why size, fit and material matter:
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Sensitive Skin
Puppies develop tolerance in their skin over time, so any materials that are too stiff or treated with harmful chemicals can run the risk of causing redness or itching.
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Rapid Growth
Because they are always growing, a collar that fits perfectly one week could well be too tight the following week!
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Comfort vs. Cute
A collar might look super cute in photos, but if it is too stiff or heavy for daily wear, it is more of a hindrance than a help.
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Improper Fit Risks
If too loose, a puppy could simply slip out of a collar, and at the other end of the spectrum, if it is too tight, it can cause lots of irritation and restricted movement.
Common issues with poorly fitting collars:
- Chafing across the neck.
- Risk of escaping or slipping out during walks.
- Losing fur where the collar is rubbing.
- A growing anxiety from your pup about wearing the collar that makes them uncomfortable.
The thing to remember is that the best puppy collar will support your pet’s growth, not hinder it. It’s a small detail, but it can make a world of difference!
Why Leather (Specifically Vegetable-Tanned) Is Ideal for Puppies
In terms of materials, you can’t do any better than vegetable-tanned leather. It has a luxurious reputation for a reason!
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Breathable Comfort
Vegetable-tanned leather dog collars are naturally breathable, meaning that they won’t trap moisture and heat against your puppy’s small neck. This is even more important when you think about how energetic little pups can be.
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Hypoallergenic and Gentle
In contrast to chrome-tanned leather and other synthetic materials, vegetable-tanned leather is classed as hypoallergenic. It is made without harsh chemicals and toxins which means that it won’t irritate your pet’s skin.
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Softens Over Time
One of our favorite benefits of vegetable-tanned leather is the way that it ages. The more it is worn, the softer and more supple it gets. The collar will literally mold to the unique shape of your pup’s body. It doesn’t get any better than that!
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Lightweight but Durable
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that leather is too heavy. Lille Bjorn collars are designed with small puppies in mind, making them sturdy and strong without being too bulky. They offer the perfect blend of security and freedom.
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A Note of Caution: Chrome-Tanned Leather
You will most likely come across plenty of collars that are labeled as ‘genuine leather’. Be careful, because a lot of these products will be chrome-tanned which involves the use of chromium VI. This is a chemical that is likely to cause allergic reactions, as well as being harmful to the planet. You should always be trying to find vegetable-tanned leather dog collars that are made using organic materials like leaves and tree bark instead.
How to Choose the Right Size (and Why Adjustability Is Key)
You don’t have to feel intimidated about sizing up your pup for a collar. This step by step guide makes the process super easy.
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Measure the Neck
Grab a soft measuring tape and wrap it around the base of your pet’s neck. Check that it is snug without being tight and then mark down the number. As a general rule, you should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between tape and fur.
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Skip the ‘Growing Room’
Try to avoid the temptation of picking a collar size that your pup is going to ‘grow into’. This is an unsafe choice to make, and something like an adjustable puppy collar is much better because it can adapt to growing changes.
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Check for Sizing Holes
Make sure to seek out collars that are equipped with multiple adjustment points. It’s a simple design feature that means your furry friend can keep their familiar collar as the weeks go by.
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Weekly Fit Check
Puppies grow even faster than you might expect, so it’s important to regularly check how their collar is fitting.
Puppy collar sizing isn’t something that has to be complicated. Just follow our simple guide and we can guarantee you won’t have a sizing problem.
How Our Classic Leather Collar Supports Growing Pups
Our ‘Classic Collar’ is the kind of no nonsense, timeless design that perfectly meets the needs of your puppy. Some of its key features include:
- Width of 3cm that is narrow enough for free movement but wide enough for best comfort.
- Soft edges that avoid stiff corners and harsh stitching.
- A lightweight build quality that your pup will barely feel.
- Brass hardware that is naturally resistant to premature wear and rust.
- The option of a matching engraved tag for extra security and peace of mind.
We think this is a leather collar for puppies that perfectly fits the bill, from trips to puppy school to active muddy walks and more!
Why Early Collar Comfort Matters for Lifelong Habits
Think about a first collar in the same way you would a toddler’s first shoes. It can set the tone for all of the good habits they will take with them into adulthood.
Your puppy is learning something new every single day, from how to walk nicely to how to play to how to feel secure in unfamiliar settings. If their collar is irritating or uncomfortable, it can start to create negative associations and experiences. On the other hand, if it is soft and easy to wear, only positive associations are created.
A positive collar relationship can lead to:
- An easier leash training experience.
- Improved call and response.
- Immediate comfort with wearing important ID tags.
Creating these early positive associations is absolutely crucial. When your pet feels food in their collar, their behavior will follow suit!
When to Size Up - And When to Stick with What You Have
Even when you have an adjustable puppy collar, you still need to know when it is time to execute those handy adjustments.
Signs It’s Time to Upgrade:
- When you can no longer fit two fingers between the collar and fur.
- When marks are being left on the fur, or it simply looks too tight on sight.
- When you have used the final adjustment hole on the strap.
Something we recommend is to have two vegetable-tanned leather collars in your collection, one for daily use and one for growth transitions so you never get caught out.
What About Harnesses for Puppies?
Harnesses can be a great accessory, particularly for taking those first outdoor adventures with your furry friend. They are particularly ideal for pups who like to pull, for sensitive breeds that are at risk of tracheal problems, and for training sessions in general.
It’s crucial to remember, though, that collars play an absolutely vital role. They hold essential ID tags, they promote good routine, and they are the first step in teaching your puppy how to be comfortable when wearing gear.
Something like our Vero Harness paired with a leather collar for puppies is the perfect product combination for safety and style.
Final Tips for Puppy Collar Success
For the best care and comfort, look no further than this simple checklist:
- Weekly fit check.
- Regular cleaning with a damp cloth, there is no need to soak it.
- Monthly use of a good quality leather conditioner.
- Adding a name tag that has deep laser engraving.
The great news is that our recycled brass tags are both stylish and strong. They won’t chip, fade or tarnish, even during the muddiest of puppy play adventures!
Start Their Collar Journey with Comfort
Hopefully we have helped you to see that a puppy’s collar is so much more than a simple accessory, it’s a tool for comfort and a symbol of care and companionship.
Choosing the best puppy collar requires a combination of everything that we have explored above, and you will find exactly what you need over at the Lille Bjorn store. Our range of wonderful vegetable-tanned leather accessories are both beautiful and built to last, the perfect choice for your new best friend.
After all, your pets deserve nothing but the best, and we can provide that for you!
